Start an Apprenticeship Program
A 10-step Process Guide organizes apprenticeship reference materials under (5) steps on the right to register a new program, and (5) steps on the left to monitor an apprenticeship program while it is running.
Tasks and resources under each step of the process guide are divided into three categories:
- REQUIRED: Driven by regulation, don’t proceed without it
- ADMINISTRATIVE: Helpful hints for agencies and coordinators
- RELATED: Other additional related resources
Click on a step for related tasks and resources.

Register an Apprenticeship
Step
1
Explore
Explore apprenticeship as a strategy for developing right skilled workers
Related Tasks and Resources
Required
Tasks
- Review the DOL’s list of apprenticeable occupations, and select an appropriate occupation / trade.
- Complete and submit the New Program Contact Sheet to the DOL Office of Apprenticeship.
Related
Tasks
- Explore the benefits and costs associated with apprenticeship, and determine whether or not to move forward.
- Convene potential partners to discuss shared goals and needs.
Resources
Step
2
Partner
Partner with key players to develop an effective apprenticeship program
Related Tasks and Resources
Required
Tasks
- Contact your local DOL Office of Apprenticeship and begin a dialogue with the Apprentice Training Representative (ATR).
Administration
Tasks
- Facilitate convening of appropriate program stakeholders.
- Develop partnerships with other employers developing similar talent.
- Engage Michigan Works! staff and discuss and pursue braided funding opportunities.
Related
Step
3
Build
Build core apprenticeship program components
Related Tasks and Resources
Required
Tasks
- Contact DOL OA ATR to schedule a site visit, and to request Work Process and RTI samples.
- Work with the employer to draft, review, and approve the Work Process.
- Select training and education provider(s) to deliver the program’s RTI.
- Work with selected RTI provider(s) to define the formal RTI requirements.
- Work with the employer to define and finalize the apprenticeship wage scale.
- Achieve formal RTI definition on company letterhead.
- Submit Formal RTI and Work Process to OA-ATR.
Resources
Administration
Tasks
- Assist in component development.
- Leverage available resources to expedite program development.
Resources
Related
Tasks
- Work with Michigan Works! staff to select braided funding opportunities.
Resources

Michigan Works! Apprenticeship Success Coordinator contacts